Can an Acura TLX tow a trailer?
The Acura TLX can tow a trailer, but only with the right equipment and within published limits. For most current TLX models, a factory Tow Package allows towing up to about 3,500 pounds. Always confirm the exact rating for your year and trim and follow the owner’s manual and local regulations.
Understanding TLX towing capacity
To tow safely, it helps to know how the TLX’s ratings are determined. Towing capacity depends on the engine, drivetrain, and whether the vehicle is equipped with Acura’s Tow Package. The practical upper limit widely cited for most TLX configurations is 3,500 pounds when the proper equipment is installed. The exact figure can vary by year and trim, so always verify your specific vehicle.
Before listing the key numbers and conditions, here is a quick overview of what affects TLX towing capability.
- Maximum trailer weight: up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the Tow Package.
- Tow Package requirement: official trailer towing capacity is contingent on having Acura’s recommended towing hardware and electrical harness.
- Without the Tow Package: the TLX does not carry an official trailer rating for towing.
- Drivetrain considerations: both FWD and AWD TLX configurations can tow within the rated limit, but proper load distribution and cooling are important.
In practice, if your trailer plus cargo stay within 3,500 pounds and you’ve installed the appropriate equipment, towing with a TLX is feasible. Always check your exact model year’s specification and adhere to the GCWR (gross combined weight rating) and tongue-weight guidelines.
What you’ll need to tow safely
Beyond the base vehicle, towing requires specific hardware and safety practices. The following items are commonly part of Acura’s recommended setup or best practice for TLX towing. Verify which items are included with your year and trim.
Tow Package components and requirements
- Factory trailer hitch and compatible wiring harness.
- Trailer brakes and a brake controller if required by trailer weight or local regulations.
- Appropriate cooling provisions, such as a transmission cooler, which may be included or recommended with towing.
- Weight-distribution or stabilizing accessories for heavier or longer trailers.
Having the correct hardware and compliance with the trailer’s electrical and braking requirements helps ensure safe operation and adherence to legal standards.
Practical tips for TLX towing
Towing with a car-based platform like the TLX changes driving dynamics. Implement these practical tips to maintain safety and control on the road.
- Do not exceed the official 3,500-pound limit (trailer weight plus cargo) and respect tongue-weight and GCWR guidelines.
- Use a properly rated hitch and ensure the trailer is loaded with a balanced weight distribution.
- Allow for longer stopping distances; trailers add to braking inertia and require careful planning.
- Inspect trailer tires, lights, and brakes before trips; ensure all signals and braking functions work with the TLX’s electrical system.
With careful preparation and conservative driving, the TLX can handle light to mid-size trailers within its rated capacity without undue strain on the vehicle’s components.
Model-year and regulatory considerations
Specifics can vary by model year, trim, and market. Acura’s Tow Package availability and included cooling or hitch components may differ, and some jurisdictions require trailer brakes or additional equipment above certain weights. Always verify your exact year’s towing capabilities with a dealer or by consulting the owner's manual for your TLX configuration.
- Check the exact towing rating for your model year and trim; ratings are not universally constant across all TLX versions.
- Verify that you have the official Tow Package or approved equivalents installed.
- Follow local laws regarding trailer brakes, lighting, and weight limits for towed loads.
Understanding these year-to-year differences helps prevent overloading and ensures compliance with safety regulations wherever you drive.
Summary
In short, a modern Acura TLX can tow a trailer up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the Factory Tow Package and used within its rated limits. Always confirm the exact specification for your year and trim, install the correct hitch and wiring, and follow safe towing practices. If you anticipate regular heavier towing needs, consider a vehicle built for higher towing capacity.
How do I know if my car can pull a trailer?
Your vehicle's tow capacity can be found in your owner's manual. The manufacturer provides this information so that you can make sure not to exceed the safe limits of your car. If you do not have your owner's manual, you can look up your car's make, model, and year online to find the tow capacity.
What are the negatives of the Acura TLX?
2025 Acura TLX Review
- Infotainment touchpad controller is distracting to use.
- Rear seats can feel cramped.
- Not as quick or fuel-efficient as many rivals.
Can an Acura TLX pull a trailer?
Learn more about the 2022 Acura TLX towing capacity at Sterling McCall Acura. The TLX has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.
What is the towing capacity of the Acura TLX V6?
2,000lbs
The TLX has 2,000lbs of maximum towing capacity. Designed to be an elite premium sports car, it could be difficult to envision the Acura TLX on the road pulling tons of weight.
